The stage was set for an epic showdown in the Eastern Conference Finals, and the Indiana Pacers pulled out all the stops in a desperate attempt to keep their championship dreams alive. On May 26, 2024, the Boston Celtics seized a thrilling 114-111 victory over the Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, taking a commanding 3-0 series lead.

As the clock ticked down and the Pacers were behind by three, they performed a daring move akin to a play from an NFL game, reminiscent of the famous “Miracle at the Meadowlands”. Taking a leaf out of the Four Verticals concept, what the Pacers tried to do was stretch the Celtics’ defense and get an open look for a potential game-tying three-point shot.

In the same way as Joe Montana would scan through his options during the last drive of Super Bowl XXIII, Pacers guard Dougie McBuckets ran into a slant route that impeded Celtics defender Jaylen Brown with a “pick” route that was executed perfectly. Nevertheless, it was a well-executed plan but it went for nothing as this ball banged off the rim and denied the Pacers any opportunity of extending this series.

“I think the Pacers just ran an NFL play” Ari Meirov posted on X. Despite the valiant effort, the Celtics’ late-game heroics proved too much for the Pacers to overcome. Jrue Holiday, defying illness, converted a go-ahead three-point play with just 38 seconds remaining, sealing the deal with a game-saving steal. Jayson Tatum matched his playoff career-high with 36 points, showcasing his clutch gene on the biggest stage.

For the Pacers, Andrew Nembhard led the charge with a career-high 30 points, while T.J. McConnell, Myles Turner, and Pascal Siakam each contributed over 20 points in the losing effort. Despite the loss their final “NFL attempt” is a scenario of genius adaptation of game tactics.

Lessons from four verticals in the NFL to the NBA

“The Four Verticals concept involves sending all four pass catchers deep down the field simultaneously,” former NFL quarterback Kurt Benkert explained in a video posted on his YouTube channel. “Offensive coordinators use this play to create 1-on-1 matchups and exploit open zones in the defense.”

Just as NFL teams meticulously dissect coverages and exploited defensive vulnerabilities with the Four Verticals, the Pacers aimed to do the same on the hardwood. “Against Cover 3, successfully looking off the free safety creates seams in the defense,” Benkert added. “The voids are just over the linebacker level on either hash, providing a good throw into a zone window.”

While the Pacers’ execution was flawless, the shot didn’t fall, leaving fans wondering what might have been if the ball had found the bottom of the net, much like the agonizing “Wide Right” and “Wide Left” moments in NFL lore. Nevertheless, the daring play showcased the ingenuity and adaptability of coaches and players, constantly seeking new ways to gain a competitive edge.

As the lines between sports continue to blur, fans can expect more cross-pollination of tactics and strategies. Who knows, maybe one day we’ll see an NBA team running the “Philly Special” or an NFL team incorporating a pick-and-roll into their offensive playbook. In the ever-evolving world of sports, the only constant is change, and those who embrace innovation will be the ones left standing.